Lykens, Pennsylvania • June 10, 2026
Dear Members of the Lykens Borough Council:
Over the past 60 years, the population of the youngest demographic (ages 19 and younger) in rural Pennsylvania counties,
defined as having a lower population density than the statewide average of 291 individuals per square mile,
has declined by 34%. Youth population decline is driven by multiple factors,
including persistently low fertility rates and outmigration of young adults. According to recent projections, rural counties
are expected to see continued shrinkage in the youth population through 2050 which may create challenges for local economies
and community vitality in the future. Although rural areas have seen a more significant decline in youth population, the issue is present state-wide.
As rural towns lose younger residents, the local tax base shrinks significantly. With fewer working-age taxpayers, municipalities
often struggle to maintain basic infrastructure, fund public services, and invest in community improvements. This creates a cycle
in which declining services and limited opportunities make it even harder to retain or attract young families, further accelerating population loss.
In this letter, I propose the creation of a community makerspace and manufacturing incubator as the most effective long-term solution
to help retain young people and strengthen the town’s future.
In contrast to attracting large external employers or developing tourism, the creation of the community makerspace and manufacturing
incubator would provide young people with access to tools, mentorship, and a collaborative space to develop skills and launch small businesses.
This directly addresses both outmigration and the economic conditions that influence family formation.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2024), manufacturing accounts for 24% of the employed population
in the 17048 zip code. This shows that manufacturing continues to play a meaningful role in Lykens’ economy. A makerspace and manufacturing
incubator could serve as a shared resource where both new entrepreneurs and existing businesses can prototype ideas, test new processes,
and develop skills in modern manufacturing techniques.
Specific recommendation:
I urge the Lykens Borough Council to form a small feasibility committee that includes local officials,
representatives from Dauphin County, and young residents to assess potential locations, identify funding opportunities
through state programs (such as the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant Program and Pennsylvania First Program),
and gather community input.
Thank you for your time,
Jose Matos
Lykens, PA
This letter was delivered to Lykens Borough Council. We are now inviting leaders, residents, and communities across Pennsylvania
to adapt and endorse it for their own towns and boroughs.